Thierry Rautureau

I worked for Thierry at Rovers from late 1994-late 1996. He was my "Chef". I quit culinary school to study from him. He gave me that chance and opportunity.
I am who I am, because of him. He was demanding and could be strict, but it was all for the art and the love of the food. But, he also had the biggest heart and compassion for everything! When I got sick and had no health insurance he took me to his doctor and went with me. He made me make brioche 3 times in a row until I got it right. He always insisted that we all sit down for family meal every night before service (even if you knew your station wasn't ready). He also claimed he had never eaten at a Mcdonald's before.
I was there when we cooked the 9 course meal and 13 wines for Julia Child, and he didn't want us to ask for her autograph, but we did anyway. I still have the menu, that was signed from her in a frame. When I moved to L.A. he helped me with my cover letter and resume. Because, I had worked for Thierry I had 3 job offers before I had even moved. My last day I worked with him, he told me I would always remember him and I would think about him every day I was in the kitchen. And, he was right!
There are so many fond memories and lessons I learned from him. I could tell many a tale. But, alas this platform is probably not big enough for all.
As Thierry would say right before service when the guests would start to arrive,
he would close the curtain to the kitchen and say "It's Showtime"....
I was one of the lucky to learn and be in the presence of this legendary man.

We celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary at Rovers in 2006. Chief Thierry prepared duck confit and cured salmon for us, a meal we will long remember. We are deeply saddened to hear of his passing and extend our condolences to his family.

God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

"Chef in the Hat", Thank you for all you have done for the community of Seattle and provided me with hours of entertainment... I will miss seeing you at Bite of Seattle when you visited the Food Lifeline Alley and when I attend the Hot Stove Society Radio Seattle Kitchen program tapings!

My condolences to your family and friends!

On my first visit to Rovers a million years ago, Thierry came to our table to say thanks for coming in. From then on, Thierry became my inspiration to become the cook I am today. Over the years, I was very fortunate to knock on the back door of Rovers, step in, and chop whatever was thrown my way. I will dearly miss Thierry for his warm smile and laugh. Thank you, Thierry, for sharing your art with me and the world.

I am so sorry about the loss of Thierry. What a wonderful chef he was and will never be forgotten! The family has my deepest condolences and I pray that you will be surrounded continuously with love and support. As you go through this difficult time, may Almighty God give you "everlasting comfort" (2 Thess. 2:16).